Despite plenty of reports claiming we’d see an iPad Mini at the iPhone 5 launch last week, no such device made an appearance.

Yet that hasn’t deterred the rumour mill from continuing to spout gossip about the low-cost Apple tablet.

Fresh speculation has started up after some new pictures started to do the rounds, claiming to reveal the device in all its glory.

The images show a 7.85-inch tablet with an aluminium back casing, bearing the Apple logo, classic iPad markings, and hole for a camera.

A volume rocker, power buttons, a rear-facing camera and hold switch complete the view from the back. From the front the device also seems to in keeping with iPad designs, with a home button and a black bezel. So what can we expect in the iPad Mini, if indeed it does exist?

Apple iPad Mini: Rumoured specs & features

The iPad Mini is set to feature Apple’s iOS6, also set for an imminent launch, as well as Sharp’s IZGO displays with an impressive 330 ppi density.

Among the expected features are dual cameras for FaceTime, allowing users to both snap pictures with the rear camera and engage in video chats with the front camera. We’re also like to see the smaller 19-pin connector port that features in the iPhone.

Apple iPad Mini: Set for success?

According to the rumour mill the Apple iPad Mini could launch as early as next month, with the device already said to be on the assembly lines at Taiwanese manufacturer Pegatron.

With a recent report by IHS forecasting that 7-inch models will claim the second largest segment of the tablet market, Apple would definitely have made a shrewd move opting for a smaller device.

Some analysts have argued that the model will need to include Siri, longer-lasting battery, and expandable storage to appeal.

Not only that, but a price tag of no more than $250 will surely be needed in order to stay in line with the likes of Google’s Nexus 7. If all these boxes are ticked, Apple could have another winner on its hands.